10-Minute Interview

From Men's Health Magazine (May 2007, page 100), quick questions to find out if someone is right for the job...

When were you exhilarated about your work? This reveals what motivates your candidate. You want a person whose passions align with the job description.

What major mistakes from your past do you not regret? From great failures come big lessons, so look for employees who recognize the importance of screwing up.

What's your favorite movie? This question measures the clarity of a candidate's thought process. People with jumbled minds often lack the ability to articulate what they need in the office.

What's a misconception people have about you? You want employees who understand how they come across to other people.

In 5 years, how will you justify having taken this job? You want employees who understand how this job fits into their master plan. Candidates who show more career introspection tend to be more ambitions, harder working, and more dedicated.

Some added questions that I often use in an interview...

How happy are you in your current job? I'm looking for people who are very happy, who don't talk bad about their work environment or current employer. It's all about attitude--which you may have heard...is a choice.

If you weren't interviewing for this role...is there another role here you'd be interested in? Iwant to know if they are just trying to get their foot in the door, or if they really are passionate about this role.

Spouse: What's the greatest fear you have about your husband/wife taking this job? I want to make sure they are in this together, and that I know about any concerns the spouse has.